December is generally not the most popular month to visit the United States of America (USA). One of the reasons is that many states in the USA face extreme winters, including snowfall, during the winters. However, this should not be the reason not to visit the USA in December. This is because December is a festive season, and there are many things to see and enjoy during this month. Popular things to do on New Year’s Eve include taking a riverboat cruise in New Orleans or partying all night long at beachside parties in Miami. Christmas in USA is a time of year filled with festive displays, light displays, and holiday concerts throughout the country. Including a host of best Christmas markets in USA selling everything from cakes, and handmade décor, to gift baskets and lots more. Moreover, those who cannot tolerate extremely low temperatures can choose to visit states or cities that enjoy a pleasant climate during winter. Whether you want to indulge in Christmas celebrations or take a break from the extreme cold in your own country, the best Christmas towns in USA will not disappoint you.
If you do not mind bundled up in layers of clothes, a visit to New York City will give you the chance to be a part of some amazing Christmas festivities. One of the best things to do here is witness the Christmas tree light up in Rockefeller Center. Broadway’s winter-themed Nutcracker Show and the Christmas Markets of Bryant Park and Union Square are a few other highlights of December in the city. Apart from these, you can go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, stroll along the snow-covered Central Park, and see the light show at Dyker Heights and Fifth Avenue. All in all, New York City promises a magical holiday in December.
If you love adventure and outdoor activities, December is the perfect month to enjoy climbing and hiking in Las Vegas. On the other hand, if Christmas festivities are what you are looking forward to, Las Vegas offers plenty of that too. It is also one of the best places to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in USA. The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are the main attraction here, as this place is converted into a winter wonderland during this month. Enchant Christmas Las Vegas, the Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Magical Forest at Opportunity Village, Festival of Lanterns at Cowabunga Bay, etc. are a few other festive attractions to see here.
If you are dreaming of a white Christmas, there is no better place than Anchorage in Alaska for the same. Enveloped in a powdery white, crystal-clear snow, Anchorage has a fairytale air to it. With so much snow around, it is the best place to indulge in some snow-related adventure and fun. Here you can go skiing, snowboarding, heli-skiing, dog sledding, ice fishing, ice climbing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice skating & hockey, snowshoeing, winter biking, etc. But the star attraction in Anchorage in December is a chance to see the colorful and magical northern lights that lit up the sky like a dream.
Winter in the USA does not always mean snow and extremely low temperatures. In fact, if you want to escape the cold weather for some time, Maui Island in Hawaii is an ideal December holiday destination. As the weather is pleasant throughout the month, you can have a great time exploring the beautiful beaches of the island. While lounging on the beaches of Maui is the most relaxing thing to do here, the island is also a great place to indulge in water adventures like snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding. December is also a great month to go whale watching in Maui. Beyond the well-known attractions of Maui, the hidden gems in Hawaii, like the enchanting Waipio Valley on the Big Island and the serene waters of the Lanai offer unique and unforgettable experiences.
Another place in the USA where you can enjoy a snowy winter in December is Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. Situated at an elevation that goes up to 9100 feet, the Bryce Canyon National Park receives enough snowfall to transform it into a winter paradise. Apart from enjoying the natural beauty of the place, you also get to indulge in winter adventures like winter hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, etc. But the thing you should not miss here is the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival. Usually held during the President’s Day Weekend, you get to enjoy geology talks, snowshoe hikes, art classes, yoga, photography workshops, etc. here. It is undoubtedly one of the best national parks in USA.
Key West in Florida is another place for those who want to stay away from cool weather and enjoy the sun and the sand this holiday season. A magical island with gorgeous beaches, Key West is the best place to enjoy the lazy beach vibe. One of the best things to do here is watch the Lighted Boat Parade, which happens every year. The sight of well-lit and decked-up boats is something you should not miss. You can also go on a historic tour where you will get to see beautiful historical buildings decked up for the festive season. Bar hopping and watching a marvelous sunset are some other things you can do in Key West.
A pleasant, Bavarian Mountain town, Washington’s Leavenworth does not leave any stone unturned to make Christmas a magical affair. The best part is that you do not have to wait for Christmas Eve or Christmas week to enjoy the festivities. The celebrations in this town start at the beginning of December itself. The center of all Christmas festivities in Leavenworth is at the Village of Lights Christmastown Festival, where you can enjoy Christmas decorations, live holiday music, Christmas-themed shops, etc. This is one of the best places to visit in December in the USA with family, as there are many fun things for children like kids’ crafts, gingerbread houses, sleigh rides, sledding, etc.
One of the best places to visit in December for couples in the USA is San Antonio in Texas. With all the beautiful lights and decorations, San Antonio has a romantic air to it in the month of December. The one thing that you need to do in San Antonio in December is visit the River Walk to admire the beautiful lights adorning the area. Here, you can ride on a river boat, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants or cafes, and enjoy live music too. Lost Maples State Natural Area, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Hemisfair Park, San Antonio Zoo, Gruene Hall, etc. are some of the popular attractions you can explore in San Antonio in December.
Lake Tahoe is one of the most gorgeous places on earth, and one of the top tourist attractions in California. Though it looks splendid all year round, it becomes even more beautiful in winter when the area is laden with snow. Apart from admiring the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe, you can also indulge in some exciting winter sports and activities here. Downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, etc. are some of the exciting activities you can try here. You can also be a part of some interesting winter events like the Snowfest and Winter Wonder Grass Festival here. Watching a splendid sunset while riding on a sleigh and going on a candlelight cruise are some other things that you can enjoy in Lake Tahoe in California this December.
Los Angeles is one of the warm places to visit in December in USA, making it a good place to visit during winter if you do not enjoy the snow. Right from Christmas lights to lively parades, the city hosts several Christmassy things for the locals and tourists. While in the city, you must check out the Christmas lights at LA Zoo, Christmas Tree Lane, and WonderLand. The Hollywood Christmas Parade that begins at Hollywood Boulevard at Universal Studios Hollywood is worth watching. Apart from this, Santa’s Northpole Village, LA County Holiday Celebration, etc. are some other must-see attractions in Los Angeles. You can also book tickets to watch a festive concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Conclusion
The Christmas Markets in America is a lovely place to buy for rare gifts and indulge in holiday treats like mulled wine, gingerbread, and hot chocolate. An important thing to note here is that the popular places to visit in the USA in December are generally crowded. To ensure that you have a good and memorable holiday, make your bookings in advance.
FAQs
1) What are the family-friendly events scheduled for December 2024 in the United States?
Families travel to the United States during a lovely time in December. There are Christmas parades, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets at Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California. Family-friendly rides, ice skating, and holiday-themed activities may be found at Navy Pier in Chicago during Winter Wonderfest. Ice skating and the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City are must-see for outdoor adventure. Cities like San Diego offer light displays at Balboa Park and festive zoo events at the San Diego Zoo.
2) Is it possible for me to visit US national parks in December 2024?
With its snow-capped granite cliffs and frozen waterfalls, Yosemite National Park in California is a spectacular place to visit. Another excellent choice is Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, where hiking is more enjoyable due to the colder weather. Explore wetlands and wildlife in Everglades National Park in Florida for a more pleasant experience away from the summertime heat and crowds.
3) What are the best things to do in the United States on New Years Eve?
One of the most famous New Years Eve events is seeing the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City, where confetti showers and live performances usher in the new year. While you may take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi in New Orleans, you can party and watch fireworks along the Strip in Las Vegas. Other well-liked pursuits are seeing the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks at Walt Disney World and going on a Golden Gate Bay Cruise in San Francisco.
4) Which USA locations offer the best experiences of a winter wonderland?
Visit Aspen in Colorado, where snow-covered mountains offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Lake Tahoe is another popular destination. Vermont, located in the Northeast, is well-known for its picturesque villages and skiing in areas like Stowe. New York City transforms into a winter wonderland, with decorated trees, seasonal window displays, and ice -skating rinks.
5) Where can I see the best New Year’s Eve fireworks in the United States?
With its iconic Times Square Ball Drop, New York City is the best place to enjoy the fireworks displays. There is a spectacular firework display by the Bay Bridge in San Francisco and amazing rooftop views of the Strip fireworks in Las Vegas. Visitors can enjoy an exciting show over the Mississippi River with live jazz music in New Orleans or fireworks along South Beach in Miami.
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